Constipation

29th December 2008

It has been a rough night and morning. Its funny how being a mother, you learn to differentiate the cries your baby makes, sometimes. Amellia had a rough time sleeping. She was grunting and tsk-ing all night which kept us awake. I knew it was her tummy. She hadn't pooped the whole day so I sensed it could be constipation. She's had constipation before but this one was the worst. I breastfed her all morning and she hasn't had a bottle of formula milk since last night. By lunchtime she was crying in pain, the worst crying I've ever heard come from her. Alhamdullillah, after alot of support from her mummy and daddy telling her to push hard, she finally pooped and she seemed so relieved after that. If she's ever constipated again, I must try these methods;

1) Giving Baby Gripe water (though I've heard Infacol is better)
2) Give baby a bottle of honey water
3) Bath baby in warm water (with the water level above the naval)
4) Massage baby's tummy using fingers pushing from belly button outwards.
5) Move baby's legs in a circular motion (as if riding a bike)
6) Chinese remedy suggested by Auntie Mama (can only be used when she's a bit older)

Personally, I think honey water after every bottle feed should do the trick to prevent constipation.

Three days ago, with the sedekah given by family members I went to mothercare and bought a baby carrier. The price was reduced from B$399 to B$199. It seemed like a good bargain and I needed a reliable & safe carrier so I decided to spoil baby and buy it for her. Its actually useful for me as I can be my independent self, go out, drive to the shops and not worry about baby in the moses basket in the back seat. That same day, I went out with Amellia and we went to Mothercare. It was so easy strapping her in and attending to her while driving. I believe every mother should have one of these.


On Sunday, we all gathered at mums place for a belated christmas lunch. The turkey and mashed potatoes was heaven. Amellia spent the day in a happy mood and was a good girl throughout the whole time we were there.

As for Amellia's progress, she's getting bigger. Her romper suits that her Auntie Mama bought for her are beginning to fit, but still a tad bit big. She's now more curious than ever. Her eyes are all over the place, taking in the surroundings. One thing that everyone says when they hold her is that she seems to be very strong. She loves to lift her head up to have a nose around. What really amazes me is how she looks at her daddy. She looks at him so lovingly and gazes at him like he's her first love or something. Her eyes constantly follow him around.

We've finally bought her cupboard which will be delivered after new years. Maybe once that arrives, it will get me cracking on finishing up on the painting.

Officially One Month Old

It Christmas and Amellia is officially one month old today. Last night we had a BBQ get-together with some friends and it seemed Amellia sensed there were people in her territory and stayed up 'entertaining' with her parents. Today, after trying to wake her up, she finally got to wear her favourite (and mummy's favourite) red dress which was bought by her Auntie Mama and she looked adorable in it. We met up with my siblings for lunch at the Empire. My beloved dropped us off and we were greeted by Amellia's Uncle Rahman while daddy searched for parking. We then proceeded to have lunch. Not to boast but a proud mother will always sense people staring at her baby. It must of been that red dress that caught people's attention. I was rather worried to spend so much time out of the house with her but she was a good little girl that stayed comfortably in her daddy's arms the whole time. It was nice to be out for a change.

"Yayyy, I can't wait to open my prezzies"

4 weeks old

23rd December 2008

Last night was the first time I left Amellia to attend a Chinese wedding which lasted about 4 hours. And God did I miss her. I kept checking my phone & messaging my babysitter, i.e. my mum to see if baby was alright. Apparently she turned out to be a good baby, had two feeds and went to bed around 11-ish. After the wedding, my beloved stayed on to mingle with his friends while I dashed over to my mums to see baby who was fast asleep. As much as I didn't want to leave her, I think I did deserve a night off to spend with my beloved.

3 Weeks Old

16th December 2008

Dear Baby Amellia,

Today you are 3 weeks old and so far motherhood is treating me well. I wonder if daughterhood is treating you well. I hope I'm being a good mother. Forgive mummy if I do something wrong but I'll try my very best to get things right.

Now, I can finally see your eyelashes and eyebrows though the colour is very faint. You have very light brown hair which stands up but mummy thinks its adorable. I brought you to the Mall the other day to do abit of X'mas shopping and I must say I was so proud cause you were getting compliments left, right and centre. You definitely stand out in a crowded room full of people as you are so pink. Then again, it could also be your light coloured hair.

Your little fingers and toes are growing and so is your tummy, especially since you can gulp down a bottle of milk in one go. Burbing you on the other hand is difficult. You never seem to want to burb but when you do burb, after alot of rubbing and tapping, you often let out one big one for such a tiny being.

One thing mummy realises, is that you most surely have the strength of your daddy's bones. You are such a strong baby. very strong for a three week old baby. You can left up your head to have a look round which you normally do when your on mummy's chest, such a busybody, just like me. Since you are strong for your age and since you love sleeping on my chest, daddy & mummy have decided to allow you to sleep on your tummy, which you seem to like compared to sleeping on your back.

Your Grandma has seemed to have grown very fond and very attached to you since you've been born. We even went out together, just the three of us today. You were asleep in her arms throughout the whole trip we were out of the house.

Its a trip seeing you develop over the past 3 weeks. Since I have nothing else to do but be with you, you'll realize there are a ton of your pictures from the day you were born till today and mummy is going to keep on snapping photos of you till you grow old. Be a good little girl now, my little pineapple.

Love,
Mummy

2 weeks 1 day old

10th December 2008

Yesterday Amellia turned 2 weeks old and so far we have accomplished breastfeeding, well, sometimes. She's still trying to get the hang of it and so am I. It's difficult not knowing if she's latched on correctly since it is one of the many "firsts" in my life. Yet, to be on the safe side and make sure she's getting enough, I also feed her formula.

Two weeks old and she's already got characteristics of her own. She's never far from me which is going to make it difficult when I go back to work. She enjoys falling asleep on my chest in her fetal position, all crunched up which makes me wonder whether its the sound of my heart beat that soothes her or if she justs wants to go back inside her mummy's tummy. I remember the first week when she was asleep on my chest, her daddy came over and said "Both my babies are asleep". It must of been a sight. Amellia's sleeping pattern has changed. Last night she woke up twice. Once at 2.30am and once at 6am. Not bad considering she was in bed by 11pm. She normally falls asleep on my chest or in my arms then I put her in her bassinet so I can spend time with my beloved. Amellia is now officially a citizen as her daddy just picked up her birth certificate yesterday. I must say, I have never been so proud to see my name in print on a document.

My precious angel now is beginning to look alot like me when I was a baby. Funny thing is, she has hairy ears and a hairy back which will eventually disappear, I was told. As for her facial hair and other parts of her body, its all blond. When she was born she looked like she didn't have any eyelashes and eyebrows cause they were so blond. I'm definitely sure she'll be a fair little one, my little snow white~

Her eyes have started to open and she has been trying to focus quite alot. Yesterday, mummy put on the living room disco lights that changes colour and she started staring and absorbing in the colours, well, I think she was only able to see the white lights and red lights. Her eyes have an indescribable colour. They look like they are dark brown and in some light, dark gray. Her eyes don't look as sharp as they did when she was born but she's still as adorable.

Sometimes I pity the little bundle cause I can't breastfeed her fully. I'm worried and surely think I'm not producing enough milk because after every feed she's still hunting for more. Hence, formula milk, which gives her constipation sometimes. So I have to give her a bottle of water to help digest her system. She's so cute with her little sounds that she makes when she's trying to poop.

I find myself constantly looking at her, even when she's asleep. I just can't get over how small her fingers, hands, feet and toes are. I must remind myself to get the 'impressions' kit from mothercare to imprint them so I'll never forget. Looking at her now, I see she's perfect beyond words and wish she could just stay this age forever. I know in a couple of months time, I'll be reading back at this and will be thinking, where did the time go...

I just hope life will treat her well and that she does not have to endure the too much pain in life and that no one will hurt her bad as people have done to me and I pray that she will always know that her mummy & daddy will always be there for her, no matter what.

9 Days Old

4th December 2008


My Dear Chinese Goddess,

You are now only 9 days old and mummy has been itching to write to you. Although you are always by my side, I'd like to keep these letters as a keepsake so when you are older you can read them and always know how much I love you, how much you have changed our lives and how your arrival has made us the happiest couple on earth.

Everyday, your daddy says your face changes. One minute you look chinese then the next you look Eurasian but either way I think you look like mummy when I was a baby. I've even got my baby picture to prove it. Your daddy has dubbed you his little chinese goddess cause for some reason you look very chinesy with those small & sharp eyes, though you have very light brown hair just like mummy. You also have mummy's stubby little button nose and mummy's fair facial hair. As for your lips, they are definitely your daddy's lips. Must of been the effect of watching too many Angelina Jolie movies.

Your Grandma is absolutely over the moon with your arrival as she has come to babysit you everyday except Fridays & Sundays. I personally think she is besotted by you cause the other night she told mummy she couldn't sleep properly, waking up every hour hoping it was morning already so she could come over to see you. Your Grandma has been an angel since mummy gave birth to you. She comes everyday to make sure the kitchen is clean, boiled water is topped up and that I'm getting along okay. She babysits you when I'm getting my daily massage and when I have my Chicken Ginger soup which is made by your Mama who I am so thankful to. Your Mama makes the soup almost everyday for mummy to make sure I'm eating right. She has also come to visit you a couple of times but you've always been asleep when she comes.

At the hospital, you were able to meet your Auntie Sarinah and your cousin Shasha as well as your Uncle Azim & Auntie Sue. Your Nini Boy met you the day after we were discharged from hospital. Your other uncle from mummy's side is your Uncle Rahman. He came to see you the day we returned home from the hospital. Mummy was asleep so your proud daddy showed you to him. His first reaction was "Macam Cina", again I must tell you, you were born looking all chinesy. He took photos of you which he kept looking at before going to bed that night. As for the rest of the family on mummy's side is your Auntie Mama who is pregnant with her first born, Uncle Razak, Auntie Ayu and your three cousins Alisha, Aqyra and Armand.

Your family on daddy's side on the other hand is huge. You have six aunties, six uncles and about 30 cousins. You have your Auntie Sarimah & Uncle Hamir then your Auntie Sarinah and Uncle Shaz, Auntie Sue & Uncle Robert, Uncle Safri & Auntie Fau, Auntie Vivi & Uncle Aziz and finally Auntie Mimi & Uncle PS. As for your cousins who have been dying to meet you since mummy married daddy over 2 years ago, there are Amirah, Nina, Aqilah, Afiqah, Aryan, Aqil, Sofie, Shasha, Lisa, Shafie, Eliza, Elina, Faten, Boboy, Nadya, Harith, Afam, Hakim, Sonia, Danial, Chenchen, Raiyan, Haziq, Irshad, Shafiq, Aishah, Afia, Waie and finally Arisha. I know its seems like it will take forever for you to remember everyone's names but by the time you'll be able to read this I'm sure you'll do just fine in knowing who's who and if you don't, mummy is always here to help.

The past 9 days has been the beginning of a journey down motherhood lane for mummy. I believe this journey involves you, me and daddy. We are a team and to enable an understanding between us, we need teamwork. I definitely don't see this as a "me" thing. Mummy knows it must be hard for you too, especially adjusting to life outside the womb. Your daddy has done his part by evolving around minor changes. He wakes up when you cry in the middle of the night and cuddles you while I make your milk. He has also reduced the air-con temperature to suit your liking which is a big effort from your daddy as he likes the room icy cold. Mummy on the other hand is getting used to waking up in the middle of the night and wee hours of the morning to feed you. I realize you often sleep for hours, sometimes one hour, sometimes even 3 hours. You surprised mummy when you slept for 5 hours in the afternoon. In between each nap you are up for about an hour, enough time to change and feed. It must be a major change for you, especially since you've been in a dark, cozy space for nine months.

So my love, till the next time I write, love you to bits. Quiet time is over, I have to attend to you now.

xoxo

My Sleeping Beauty

Confinement

December 3rd 2008


Confinement is a tad bit boring for me since I'm used to going out. I love window shopping and just browsing around. Yesterday I was able to convince my beloved to go to Supasave. I needed to buy the essentials like maternity pads, diapers and baby formula.

Breastfeeding hasn't been a good trip for me. The first two days were okay but apparently those two days were days of breastfeeding wrongly. Baby didn't latch on properly therefore by day three my nipples were sore, cracked and bleeding. I cried in pain everytime she breastfed so we had to buy formula as a back up. I tried expressing but felt like I wasn't expressing enough. So nowadays I pump as much as I can and feed it to Baby Amellia but by nightfall, I'm all dried out and she has to take formula. I'm currently allowing myself to heal before I try to breastfeed her directly again.



As for myself, I've been reduced to eating nothing but Chicken Ginger Soup everyday made by my mother in law. Its so delicious that I end up taking seconds. My mum made bubur last week while my sister in law made me some chicken soup. My abang is strict and has told me not to drink any cold drinks and not to go up and down the stairs alot hence the reason why my living room has become my den. I brought down my mattress and just rest on it with Amellia. Here are a few of the do's and don'ts one has to surrender to during confinement;

1) No drinking of cold drinks of any kind
2) Wear socks at all times
3) No cold showers
4) No eating beef or spicy foods, chicken saja.
5) No walking up and down the stairs (Takut gugur peranakan)
6) Drink lots of warm drinks, esp Milo (To increase milk flow)

On Sunday, my Barut lady came. An Indonesian lady that goes by the name Siti. She's just so efficient as she drives herself. She charges about B$200 for the week. My ritual starts of with getting scrubbed down (belulut) then I shower in warm water, followed by her pressing her warm 'magic' stone down on my belly and lower back then a massage. Finally she ties up the barut around my torso. The barut is kept on for at least 9 hours. I call it my stray jacket.

As for movement, well, the first few days I felt like an invalid. For someone who is used to moving around and being active & independent, the stitches down below has made me slow down tremendously and has made me depend more on others around me.

I've learnt many things after giving birth naturally, some of them are;

1) Contractions! They aren't so bad, in the beginning then they hurt like hell towards the end, especially when your 6-7cm dilated.

2) Privacy. You don't have it at all. Your body becomes the amusement of others. There is no time for modesty as the medical people are poking you here and there from the moment you arrive at the hospital.

3) Labour. Its like being constipated and taking a long poop but its all worth it when you see your baby for the first time. A rewarding outcome.

4) Stitches. Getting stitched up hurts like hell when they don't give you enough General Anesthetic. BUT they hurt even more when you're recovering.

5) Movement. Due to the stitches, movement is limited therefore you end up walking like a duck for a week or so.

6) Breastfeeding. If its not done properly, its a nightmare. The pain of sore nipples that are cracked and bleeding is unbearable that you will end up crying. I rather give birth again. Next time I must make sure baby latches on properly.

7) Number Two. Doing a poop for the first time after childbirth is difficult. But once its out it feels like heaven. In order to make it much easier, stick to a soupy diet.

8) Blood. Its just never-ending. Must remind self, the next time I must stock up on at least 4 big packs of maternity pads. (Yes, I am willing to go through it all again!)

*wink*

One Week Old

December 2, 2008

WARNING! Explicit Content. Girls, don't read on if you don't want to know about Auntie Kim's labour experience.

Baby Amellia is one week old today and funnily enough its finally kicked in, I'm a mother to an adorable baby girl. Tears of joy came streaming down my face early this evening. Looking at my little bundle of joy, I cant believe this little baby was growing inside me for 9 months, well, 38 weeks to be exact. Time has actually flown by. The past seven days have been a trip. Tiring, yes, but most definitely the best 7 days of my life.

Baby Amellia

D-Day started on the morning of the 24th November. I woke up, went to the toilet and realized I was bleeding. I immediately assumed it was my water that had broke. Little did I know I was wrong. I seemed to have jumped to conclusion, it was actually the mucus plug. I called mummy since my darling was fast asleep in bed and didn't even realize I had gotten out of bed until he heard me telling my mum over the phone that my water had broke. He woke up straight away and said "huh? water broke?"..haha..I bursted out into giggles. It was the cutest thing. He started panicking whereas I just stayed calm, with a touch of excitement but nevertheless got things ready. We took our time, got dressed, shaved where necessary, loaded the car and by 10am, we were on our way to RIPAS with Didih as our driver. We went to the Emergency section where they did a quick check on how many centimetres dilated I was. Apparently I was only 1.5cm dilated. I still had another 8.5cm to go. I was wheeled to the labour ward and had to wait. The ward was full since everyone had decided to give birth on the very same day. I overheard that there were 27 births on that day itself. Finally got checked into the First Stage Labour Ward around mid day then later on around 9pm I was checked to see how many cm I was dilated. At this point I was only 5cm. Contractions were coming and going about 4 minutes apart. At this point, I knew if I didn't get any rest I wouldn't be able to push during delivery so I asked for some pain killers to help me sleep. Although the pain killers did not kill the pain, it did make me feel groggy so I could rest alittle.

I remember grabbing hold of the rails of the bed everytime the contractions came. The nurses ended up wheeling me into the labour room around midnight. I quickly messaged my darling as I needed him there with me. Since husbands aren't allowed in after a certain time, he was waiting outside with his friend, Khai and was on the verge of going home to sleep. As I got onto the bed in the labour room, I was only 7cm dilated but already had the urge to push. All I remember was the feeling of pushing felt like wanting to do a fart. Thinking back to what I said to the nurse still cracks me up...I can't believe I actually said, "Macam kan bekantut!"..haha

Things most people don't tell you nor do mothers enjoy sharing their labour details is the fact that if your bladder is not empty, have no fear, labour will empty it for you and it definitely makes sure you do. Pushing about two to three times, which made me feel like I was constipated gave me the urge to empty my bladder & bowels..(yes, eeeewww) Since my water hadn't broke yet, the nurses had to do it for me and apparently, if I can recall it was green, meaning to say it was meconium which is when the baby is in distress and poops inside you. My cervix was thin (which is what the nurses said) and soon baby's head was crowning. With my true love standing beside me, I felt a little relieved. He helped alot by supporting me and holding my hand. Well, it was more like me squeezing his hand.

It must of been an unforgettable experience for my beloved, to see it all live! I now love him more for his support in the labour room. As I had to control the final push, Baby A's eyes, ears, nose had to be suctioned from the green stuff. With the final push at 12.50am, she was officially out. My beloved's words were "You did it babe, well done" and all i remember saying was "Is she ok? Check sudah fingers and toes nya?" haha and he replied "Awu, semua ada babe."

They cleaned her up and dressed her before laying her beside me to feed for the first time. My beloved then cited the Azan in her ear. My little angel looked adorable. Her suit was a tad bit too big for her though. Must remind myself to buy new born size clothes the next time..hehe. My baby was finally here. A childhood dream of becoming a mother finally came true.

After the final stage of labour which was delivering the placenta, I was stitched up. Funny thing is, from what I read, stitching is not suppose to hurt as General Anesthetic is given but there were odd stitches I could feel. Nevertheless, it was all worth it. By 2.30am, I was rolled into Ward 18 and given bed number 34. The new daddy left to go home and sleep while I spent the night with Baby Amellia beside me. By 6am, the ward was up and running and babies cries could be heard here and there.

Later on in the morning the Doc came round to check baby then another doc came round to check me. Thank God my hubby's niece, Zura was on duty. She was able to persuade the Doc to allow me to leave the same day which was usually unheard of especially if its your first born. Being number 32 on the waiting list for First class was a bummer. I doubt I was able to get a room for one night and I needed to be beside my husband and baby in my own bed. Luckily by 6pm I was discharged.

Back at home, we settled down and had some quiet family time together before the family came over. Our first guest was the ever so sweet Alai Z who is currently 4 months preggers. She brought Baby Amellia a cute set from M&S and the letter A for her room. The family then dropped by to see baby Amellia. She finally met a few of her many cousins. I fell asleep soon after and was told my abang dropped by after work and had a peek at Baby Amellia. I heard he took a picture of her and when he got home, he looked at it over and over again before going off to sleep. Now, that's love..hehe.

The next day was our first morning together as a family. Our friend Rach dropped by and brought some cute tops for Baby to use when she gets bigger then in the evening Baby Amellia met her 3 cousins from her mummy's side and her grandpa.

On Thursday, Baby got her first visit from the lovely nurses of Anggerek Clinic. They checked her and me and had a little chit chat before leaving to their next visit. In the afternoon, my abang helped my beloved to sort out Baby Amellia's birth certificate and my placenta which had to be buried. Baby's crib also arrived on that day and they set it up in the nursery. It's a shame the nursery isn't complete yet but not to worry I've got two months to sort that out. Before the Baby's next visit from the nurses on Saturday, her belly button finally fell off. Quite quickly than normal but I was told not to worry.

Baby Amellia

I am proud to announce the arrival of
Baby Amellia Anddy
born on the 25th November 2008 at 12.50am, weighing 3.1kg.

Week 38

Dear Princess,

Mummy has finally started maternity leave and so far I'm enjoying the rest. It does make me wonder though whether you can tell the difference. I'm probably more active being at home with doing the laundry everyday and tidying up compared to the daily sit-at-desk-and-go-online at the office. At home, I find all sorts to do. For the past two days mummy has finally caught up with the laundry. Yayy!

On saturday mummy purchased your feeding chair to put in your nursery.Although I had my eye on the Ikea armchair, it was just too costly and would take over a month to order so mummy ended up buying this really comfy recliner chair from Thompsons at a whooping B$85. Reasonably priced thats why I bought it.

Mummy has also finally splurged on two nursing bra's. This was quite a hard task to do since mummy tried window shopping for the cheapest one. Luckily mummy is big-boned and bra's at mothercare for the big-sized woman is discounted. Mummy got two nursing bra's for the price of BS39.90. A very good bargain I would think.

Mummy has also finally completed packing the mum & dad hospital bag. I've got everything on the list except the electrical items which will be packed on the day itself. All the things that need to be brought to the hospital on D-day are in one area so daddy will know what to carry to the car; The Baby box, The big bag, your pillow & bolster set and your moses basket.

As for the rest of my maternity leave before you arrive my precious daughter, mummy will try to finish painting your room, buy you a wardrobe and stock up on things that you might need like some clothes, swaddles...bla bla bla...

Ooooo....I can't wait to see you my love!

xoxo

Mummy at 38 weeks

Nesting

Wednesday, 12 Nov 2008

Judging myself while reading what I have written since getting pregnant, I think its safe to assume that I have been in a nesting mode since my second trimester. My Sayang, on the other hand, apparently has only just gotten into his nesting mode. Funny thing is, I did not know father-to-be's also could get into the nesting mode. Nesting for my sayang is actually on a whole different level than mine. I nest by shopping for baby and preparing for her arrival whereas my sayang decides to splurge on a new home entertainment system so "baby can enjoy watching sesame street" while we are at work. Haha!

Over a span of two days, Sayang has bought a Home Theater Set, a new plasma TV and a TV bench to complete our TV room, which is now just perfect. First he bought the home theater set then the Plasma TV. Last night we went to Growing Stars to purchase Baby A's chest of drawers and in the process saw the perfect TV bench for the TV room. So, we bought those two items and ended up assembling the TV bench last night before sitting down to enjoy the new set up.

Daddy's new Entertainment set up

Baby A's new chest of drawers will be arriving tonight so I'll be able to do a little folding and putting things into the drawers during my maternity leave. As maternity leave starts on Monday, I'll also be able to drive down to Sengkurong to have a look see at the white wardrobe in Index. They didn't have any new stock at growing stars of the one I actually wanted, so the next best thing is at Index. A bit more pricey than the one in Growing Stars but its the only one around. I still have my eye on the feeding chair at Growing stars. Will wait for the end of the month to purchase it though. Mummy has already sorted out Baby A's crib, so now its just finding affordable bedding for the cot. I still need to buy a few knick knacks like extra towels, baby's bath set and some of her toiletries. Gosh! I really didn't think it took so much preparation for such a tiny human being.

Baby A's New White Drawers

Thursday, 13 Nov 2008

I had a blast last night while I was out & about doing my own kind of nesting. Sayang had his final night out with the boys before his confinement at home or "being grounded" as he puts it. I appreciate him knowing how important it is for him to stay at home over the next few weeks as I could go into labour anytime, especially for him. Sayang loves his football and occasional night out with the boys so it really means a lot to me when he is willing to just stay home and be there, just in case. Then again its not like he could get bored at home. We have the entertainment system and his X-box plus the boys are always welcome over to keep him company.

So, while he was out, I decided to go out too. First I dropped by to Bismi and bought Baby A's Buku Yasin coz I think she deserves her own plus the one I bought was small enough to put in her baby box. Then I made a trip to Hua Ho Kiulap where I ended up in the Baby section purchasing a waterproof mat for Baby A's cot, a Winnie the Pooh Swaddle blanket with matching mittens & booties. I also got the remaining toiletries like cotton wool, a bottle of Johnson's Baby lotion, top-to-toe wash and baby powder. The underten Valuemart was my last stop. I found Ikea drawer dividers there which seemed perfect for Baby A's new drawer chest.

The Ikea drawer organizer
(Adorable Baby booties from Baby A's uncle Azim)

Ergonomically Designed Grooming Set
(A gift to Baby A from her Uncle Azim)

This morning was my weekly hospital check up. My BP was ok and my weight had increased from 93kg to 93.6kg. I just hope I don't reach the 100kg mark. That would kill me. I can't imagine carrying all that weight around.

Friday, 14 Nov 2008

Last night was spent having a little quality time with my Sayang. Before you get all sorts of ideas, let me correct you if you think we either had a romantic dinner or a night out at the movies. Our quality time together started off by ordering 'delivery' from McDonalds, then out to the stationary shop to buy a big black piece of cardboard then back home to proceed with trying to hide the electrical wires hanging around the TV area.

Maternity leave starts on Monday so I will definitely have a blast with last minute preparations. I've already got a list of things to do to keep me occupied during my pre-labour days. I've already started a habit of putting on Little einstein's CD's on TV for Baby to listen to in the mornings, courtesy of Azim who bought them in Singapore during his recent trip. Baby A always starts kicking when she hears the characters singing. I still need to try and purchase the Baby einstein DVD's for baby A. Will sort that out next week.

Little Einsteins CD's for Baby A

37 Weeks - The Baby Shower

My dear bundle of joy,

Since our last hospital appointment, I have been counting your movements and I must say you are quite active. Between 9am to 5pm (mummy's working hours), you move about 12 to 15 times. That does not include your active movements in the middle of the night. Even your daddy felt you kicking at 4 in the morning on Saturday night. He gently whispered to you to go back to sleep. You must be making your appearance soon coz mummy is having difficulty sleeping at night and also having dreams of you already being here.

Your Orang Putih Sasat Mummy and Aunties

Our Sunday was a blast, your Auntie Gail threw us a surprise baby shower with a little help from your grandma, uncle azim, auntie Sue, auntie hazel and your daddy. Your Uncle Azim made a date with mummy to have lunch and do some baby shopping a week before, which is not out of the ordinary but mummy thought she smelt something fishy when your daddy remembered my lil'date with your uncle Azim. And apart from that, your uncle azim who is always an indecisive and a very go-with-the-flow person surprisingly had the day all planned out. We had lunch at Country patch, which my dear daughter will be our little breakfast place when you arrive coz its nice and cosy. Mummy had a yummy sandwich and a scone which was delish! We then made our way to Mothercare and your Uncle Azim bought you an Ergonomically designed Grooming Set and some Pink Booties. So basically your uncle azim wants you to always look good with great shoes! hehehe...Our final stop was Hua Ho Manggis Mall where we just browsed around. Mummy was getting quite tired and cranky (as your uncle azim put it) so we made our way home. We got home to see your Grandma's car and your Auntie Gail's car in the driveway. Hah! Suspicions confirmed. And so that is why they all wanted mummy out of the house for the afternoon. Your Grandma, auntie gail and auntie Sue put up balloons and set the table up with yummy desserts. It was chocolate heaven~ Alai Umar was there to surprise mummy. He's a handsome lil'devil with beautiful eyes. Auntie Intan and Auntie Dian were also there to surprise mummy too. It was so sweet of them to come. Daddy was also in it all along but stayed out of the way when your aunties were preparing the food. Your Auntie Hazel called and apologized for not being able to come as she had a wedding to attend and your Auntie Mel sent over a yummy cake for the shower...which Auntie Gailey dug into with her finger...hehe..Around sixish, your auntie Yanti came over to join us.

Fresh Cream Cake from Auntie Mel

Mummy's X'mas Tree Mud Cake from Auntie Sue

All in all, it was a great day with the girls (i.e. your aunties). Sometimes its just great to have a girly day with your girlfriends. I hope you'll grow up being able to find a great bunch of girlfriends like mummy has. Your Auntie Gailey is such an angel for hosting the baby shower and I'm very much honoured since it was her first time hosting an event...hehe.. and she did a great job!

Mummy has to go work now...Love you sweetums!

Before Confinement - a little reminder to myself

Before I end up in Labour and delivering Baby A into this world, I still need to stock up on some more things as I don't think I'd want to pester my sayang to go to the shops and do baby shopping. Confinement will be 40 days but i'm sure I'll be able to step out of the house a week later, but we'll see. In the mean time, I'll need things to last me at least a week. Once I get Baby A's Bath & Change area done, i'll need to get these stuff so that they are in hands reach.

• Baby Wipes
  
• A big bottle of Johnson's Top to Toe
  
• A Big bottle of Johnson's Baby Lotion
• A big bottle of Johnson's baby powder
  
• A packet of disposable diapers (will buy on the day I leave the hospital)
• Baby towels

I know the first week will be all about baby. I'm sure she'll be the center of our world yet that is no excuse for me not to look after myself. I'll need to find a lady to help massage me and bind me up after giving birth. I also need to purchase that "Tropical Herbs Post Natal Care" from Amway. It such a great set. It comes with all the herbs and a free binder. Will contact my Amway mates for that at the end of the month.

Baby A's 4D Scan

Baby A

Chubby Cheeks just like mummy
Cute chin just like mummy
Sexy & pouty lips like daddy
and a nose that i'm not sure is like whose just yet...

Preparations

I've finally gotten started and nearly finished with packing the hospital bags. I didn't realize there are so many bulky things to pack for a hospital stay of 2 days. I actually have to pack 2 bags. One for myself & hubby and the other for Baby A. My bag is still incomplete as I still need to put in Nursing Bra, Bra Pads, Dressing Gown, water bottle, my cardigan and 1 more Towel. As for my toiletries, I need to add in 2 Toothbrushes, Toothpaste, Deodorant, body lotion and baby oil. Couple days before D-Day, I'll need to put in a change of clothes for myself, a change of clothes for my better half, 2 pillows, a throw-over, ipod & headphones, camera & charger and the mobile phone chargers. Besides all that, I will have to also remember to put in Baby's Blanket & pillow set for the hospital crib.

Its really not easy trying to get organized. But so far, so good. I've got Baby A's first outfit ready. Mummy was so nice to wash some of the baby's clothes so once she did that, I packed one set consisting of a sleepsuit, a pair of mittens, a hat, a diaper, a swaddle blanket and a towel in a zip lock bag (idea courtesy of Jenny). This keeps the baby clothes smelling nice plus none of Baby A's stuff in her baby box will be messed up by the nurses or get germs on them. Thanks Jenny! Baby A's daddy suggested that an all white attire would be appropriate, "Bersih usulnya" he said.

Baby A's First All-White Outfit
(Courtesy of her Auntie Mama)

Baby A's box is ready too. I bought one of those Baby Boxes from Mothercare ages ago and have been trying to fill in up since. Now its finally perfect after asking nearly everyone what would be the necessary things to bring as I don't won't to overload myself with things I won't end up using. Kak Ayu is a god-send. She basically gave me the run-down on what actually would be needed for the hospital and briefed me on what to expect at the RIPAS hospital.

Baby A's box consists of 3 outfits, one towel, 2 binders, 2 tarry nappys (for breast feeding), 20 diapers, 2 swaddle blankets, Baby wipes and toiletries; powder, lotion, cologne and diaper cream. Mummy also put in a bar of Johnson's Baby soap so everything in the box will smell Johnson-nie!! hehe..Thanks mummy! As for the diaper cream, I have decided not to use the Drapolene so I'm going to have to nip out later and buy a tub of Sudocream. In the process of doing shopping I will also have to remind myself to buy cotton wool, Johnsons Baby oil, Minyak Telon and buku Yasin yang small.

Baby A's Box

Assuming all goes well, insyallah and its time to leave the hospital, I think I am going to have to break the 'Babyzone' rule of putting baby in a carrier since we haven't bought one. Instead, baby will be travelling home in her Bassinet. Of course I'll be sitting in the back seat with her and it won't be for a long period as we only live 5 minutes away from the hospital. I finally purchased the Moses basket from mothercare but had to air it out because the basket had a funny smell. Mummy also washed the covers for the bassinet and she iron-ed them too. I owe her alot. I wouldn't know what to do without her. If you happen to read this mummy, I love you!!!
I think she deserves a very special gift from me for her birthday in January.

The moses basket

Week 36

Dear Princess,

Aha! Notice the "princess"? Mummy found out you were a girl last week, wuhoo! More shopping for you. You'll be the best dressed baby on the block. Mummy has had a blast over the last couple of days looking for pink stuff for you to wear during your arrival.

Your Grandma came over on Saturday and took most of your 'first-few-days' clothes as well as your bassinet covers for washing. By Sunday lunch time they were back with me. It was so sweet of your grandmama to do your laundry. I will always be in her debt. Unfortunately, I found out your grandmama and grandpa wont be here to celebrate your first Christmas so we will be doing other arrangements instead of the traditional lunch at your grandparents house. Although mummy was quite upset to hear the news, I guess we can't be too selfish, can we? I guess its no big deal that they won't be around for your first x'mas. Its not that important, as if you'll even know what the big hoo-hah holiday is about anyways.

And so, thanks to your Grandma, mummy has finally packed your hospital box consisting of most of the things you'll need during our stay at the hospital and I have also prepared your arrival bag consisting of a towel for the nurses to wipe you down, your suit, a pamper, mittens and hat the nurses will put on you after you pop out and a swaddle blanket so you'll feel nice and warm. Mummy's hospital bag is almost complete. Again your Grandma was so nice to help mummy and bought maternity pads as well as disposable panties for mummy. She also washed mummy's new nighties and gave mummy two sarongs to use in the hospital. Now mummy just needs to buy the odd toiletries and a nursing bra and i'll be set!

You'll be able to feel a change in mummy's daily routine next week as I will be taking my maternity leave starting the 15th November. Then, hopefully mummy will be able to finish up on your room. It's okay kan sayang if its not ready by the time you arrive. You'll be sleeping in mummy's room anyways for the first month.

Anyhoo munchkin, Mummy has to go work dulu. Enjoy yourself in there coz I'll be seeing you soon! Love you!

Preparing to Breastfeed

Since deciding to breastfeed and being a soon-to-be working mother, there are a few items I will need to buy. So far, I have the manual express pump and loads of baby bottles given to me by Ka'Imah. Now All I need are:

1) Bottle Warmer : Currently I'm liking this AVENT Bottle & Baby Food Warmer.


2) Bottle Sterilizer : I want the AVENT Complete Express Steam Sterilizer

Once I've bought those two items, I think I should be set for being a working breast-feeding mother. As for my wishlist for baby, I'm in love with these adorable items for Baby A. Gonna hafta try and buy them when I get the chance, probably after baby A is born.

1) Winnie the Pooh Bath Set


2) Mothercare's Baby K Attire

Baby K Velour All-in-one

Baby K Ballet Pumps

Baby K Bodysuits

Baby K Sleepsuits



Baby K Leggings & Top

Red Velour Dress
(Perfect for Christmas)

Week 35

My Dearest Sweetums,

Gosh, its been an overwhelming weekend. Last Saturday was quite a busy day for us. Since the part-time maid was not scheduled to come that day, mummy had to quickly do the laundry as it was piling up. As soon as mummy did that, mummy got ready to join daddy and uncle didih for breakfast at CA Mohammad since we had to sort out the changing-of-name on the blue card of daddy's car. Yet, due to the long lepaking time with your daddy's friends, we ended up not going to land transport. Instead, after breakfast, mummy went home to rest before my appointment with Dr. Ding at Yayasan for an ultrasound. Around three o'clock, mummy & daddy entered Dr. Ding's office and saw you in 4D. Apparently, you were so shy that you hid your face from us by covering your face with your hands. Belabih! Mummy ended up going back an hour later after having a little something to eat.

Success! After having a bite to eat, you were more than willing to show yourself to us and I could see your face in 4D. The wonders of modern technology. I really thought the hospital 3D machine was amazing, but apparently the 4D machine is even better. Dr. Ding kindly took some pictures of you and recorded the session on DVD. Since daddy didn't accompany mummy the second time, I showed your picture to him when I got home. Baby, mummy has to say sorry as it seems like you've inherited mummy's chubby cheeks. And also mummy's chin......yet, you've got daddy's lips...sexy & pouty lips! While watching you on the screen, mummy was able to see abit of your character. I saw that you love to yawn! and also you enjoy sucking on your thumb..hehehe

The following day, Sunday, mummy attended the final ante-natal class at JPMC. Daddy could not make it again so I went alone. Since it was raining cats & dogs the night before, our roads were flooded and it was not nice driving that morning. But after class, we dropped by your Auntie Vivi's place for a cuppa then made our way home. All in all it was a long day.

Anyhoo my sweetums, Mummy is getting more and more excited by the day...can't wait to see you sayang..just a month to go!

xoxo
Mummy

Week 34

Dear Peanut,

Mummy is currently over the moon and on a high with what she saw this morning. Mummy had to go to the hospital again today for her monthly checkup but before that I had to have a ultrasound to find out how you were doing inside there. Mummy had the shock of her life to see how much you have grown. The hospital ultrasound machine is apparently a little bit better than the one used at the Sungai Hanching clinic as it is a 3D one. Anyhoo, daddy accompanied mummy but didn't go inside to have a look see so we decided we most definitely have to take a trip to Dr.Ding's office soon.

During the ultrasound, mummy could see that:

• You have inherited from mummy a nice round head with a lot of hair. Lets just hope it doesn't stick up like mummy's used to.
• You have a good heartbeat
• Terrible chubby thighs but strong bones, most probably inherited from your daddy.
• You like sleeping with your hand next to your face, like your daddy
• a beautiful side profile...with a stubby nose..hehehe

During the ultrasound, mummy was lucky enough to see you suck your thumb. My oh my, your gonna be one hungry peanut, aren't you. Mummy also saw you moving and stretching, probably finding space as it seems like its getting too cramped in there for you. But to top it all, I actually saw you yawn with body movements like an adult. Its unbelievable to know that its actually you inside there....I can't wait to see you, my bundle of joy...my miracle, my baby~

Till next time my love...mwuah!

Week 32

Dear Peanut,

How have you been feeling lately? Have you been enjoying those yummy raya cakes mummy has been eating and wait about all those gassy drinks? Hmm....as of today, no more sayang okay. Nanti you will be overweight coz mummy already is. I have been referred to the dietician and my appointment will be next week. Mummy's going on a boiled vegetables & water diet over the next few days so jangan menyamal okay if food is not to your liking. Its for the best munchkin.

Although mummy & daddy decided not to celebrate raya to the max this year, we still needed to do a few things before the first day of raya. Daddy paid zakat fitrah for two, mummy prepared raya attires for the first 4 days of raya, bought slippers to wear (coz mummy's feet have increased in size and none of my shoes fit), tidied around the house just in case we get visitors and filled some of the jars with munchies for the visitors.

Mummy is a happy bunny today. I was out with your Auntie Mama last night and had a browse around Mothercare. I semi-purchased your first piece of furniture. Your moses basket. I will be waiting for your Uncle Razak to bring back the rocker when he comes back from his UK trip then I'll pay the rest for the moses basket. This way your daddy can see it as a whole piece of furniture. Your Auntie Mama will be leaving for UK tomorrow and is abit upset that she wont be able to see you when you arrive but its okay, you'll spend your first x'mas with her as she'll be back by then.

Your daddy has finally made a trip to the immigration department to get the application form for the quota to get your nanny. Mummy already has someone in particular in mind but I'm still not sure. If I had my own way, I'd bring you up alone but mummy is a working woman. It will probably be very hard for mummy when maternity leave ends and I have to go back to work. Sigh...

Anyhoo munchkin, mummy has to work now. Will write again soon. You keep on kicking in there kay. Love you loads!

Week 31

Dear Peanut,

In less than 10 weeks, mummy & daddy will have the honour of you gracing us with your presence. It won't be long now munchkin. You've definitely turned out to be an active lil one. I have a feeling you're doing your somersaulting and rotating so you can get into the 'right' position, although it does make mummy feel funny inside when you do so. That will probably be one of the things I'll miss about being pregnant with you.

It's funny how you tend to really get jiggy with it especially when mummy & daddy are watching the UFC DVD's daddy bought recently. You tend to move alot when daddy's favourite UFC champion, George St. Pierres starts doing his thing in the octagon and when the commentator, Bruce Buffer starts introducing the UFC fighters. Could you be enjoying mixed martial arts? Or do you just enjoy listening to the 'wild-crowd' noises? Hmm...could it be possible you'll be a lil'rascal like your daddy when he was younger? Only time will tell....

We will be sighting the moon tonight dear and so maybe tomorrow or the following day will be Hari Raya. A celebration you'll only able to enjoy next year. This year you can enjoy it in the comfort of your own little space.

Mummy has been waking up and scaring the lights out of your daddy recently...hehe...I couldn't help it, mummy just felt the cramps in my legs coming and woke up saying "Awwww aww awww, cramp cramp cramp cramp.." Your sweet daddy, of course immediately woke up and helped mummy control the leg cramps before they came. Now, if you turn out to be a boy, make sure you're as sweet as your dad ok? Mummy has been sleeping fine so far (knock wood) except last night, mummy had the weirdest dream. I was driving the car with your auntie mimi and kinda drove off the cliff accidentally and landed in the sea...hehe...it beats the first weird pregnancy dream I had in my first trimester. Dreamt of Auntie Wiwi, losing tonnes of weight and showing off by walking around without clothes on...hahaha...weird~

Anyhoo, sweetums...u rest now. Mummy & Daddy can't wait! Luv u!

Depression

Depression has suddenly kicked in. Maybe its because of yesterdays clinic check up. It seemed to have not gone so well. Apparently my BP is high and my weight increase for this month has gone over the limit. And it will be the GTT test again for me. That will make it my third one hence the referral to the Dietician.

On top of that, I received some news that someone has been talking about me behind my back accusing me of being jealous. oh please! I would think I wouldn't act so "hormonal" if I wasn't pregnant, but being as I am, 7 mths pregnant, on hearing such accusations, it somehow disrupted my day. I have become truly upset. My sleep was disturbed and tears kept on streaming down my face. Okay, thats just not me. On any normal un-pregnant day, I would feel upset for an hour or so then just shrug it. But this time, haiyaaa!

So last night was the first. I was up all night thinking and came to the realization that I somehow feel very alone. Yes, I have a husband but he can't cater for my feelings all the time. If I did tell him my true feelings, I would probably get "Biar tia, atu dosa nya...just forget it lah". So being the quiet, un-nagging wife that I am, I just kept it to myself. Yes, I do have a family but...it was someone in the family that has accused me of being jealous. It doesn't make sense. When someone in your family has been successful, do you think I am ridiculously SAD to be jealous. Of course I should be proud. Yet, it seems that someone thinks money and status is everything. In my eyes, if you reached the jackpot, may it be through good intentions or bad, that is your rezeki. Excuse me but I am perfectly happy with my life. I have my house, my loving husband and my bun in the oven. I do not need a million dollars to put a smile on my face. I have all that I need. Yes, I may struggle with my finances at times but I do not need to rely on others to live. I make my own living, I am independent and I can be proud of that. Furthermore, I am thankful, I am happy, I am content. So, stuff that where the sun don't shine!

I can't wait for this lil one to arrive. I'm sure he/she will be the only thing that will change how I feel. Please come fast Baby, Mummy feels very lonely and only you can change that!

Facts on Varicose Veins

Courtesy of Dr. Gerard M. DiLeo (Baby Zone)

• They won't go away, because you've always had these veins, but hopefully they'll shrink back down to their pre-pregnancy size and become unnoticeable.

• Sometimes veins can get so inflamed (especially when they're hemorrhoids) that a surgeon has to lance or remove them, but this is something best left until after pregnancy if they persist.

• The reason why pregnancy makes a woman more prone to this engorgement of blood vessels is that the weight of the baby and uterus presses on the vena cava, the main drainage blood vessel bringing blood back to the heart from the lower body. This tends to impede the flow, and gravity dependent areas back up and engorge the most.
  

• Propping up the legs during bed rest helps, too. In the meantime, the engorgement of blood within the veins can be kept pressed out by applying pressure. There are maternity stores and medical supply stores which have girdles and hose specifically designed to keep these types of things under control. They're not great, but they'll help.

Pregnancy Fun Facts

FACTS

I am now at week: 28 weeks

I am expecting Baby No: One

Sex of Baby: Unknown

Place of Delivery: RIPAS Hospital, Bandar Seri Begawan

Expected Date of Delivery: 1st December 2008

Baby's First Kick: July 10th, Lunchtime

First Symptoms: March 30th (Tiredness & Missed Period)

First Hint: Slept all Sunday

My Reaction: Happy with Tears of Joy

Hubby's Reaction: Dropped his mobile phone after reading my texted message

Family's reaction: Overjoyed

Baby Name: will be revealed when baby arrives

3 D Scan: End of this month

Total weight gained: 20 kilos

Bra size: 40D

Clothes Size: Increased from size 12 to Size 16

Shoe Size: Increased from 7 to 8

Pregnancy Blues: Not really

Pregnancy Problems: Just a little over weight for my liking


FEELINGS

Weirdest Food Craving: Not weird ones, just normal day to day cravings. Started with Steamboat, then soups, soups and more soups followed by vegetables, barbequed chicken and now its lamb chops.

Weirdest thing done/like/hate since pregnancy: I just can't stop laughing like a hyiena.

Things you miss doing: being fit to do everything

Funniest moment: just too many

Weirdest thing you were asked to practice: Nothing weird, just superstitions like don't drink coke, don't stand under the door frame, don't tie a towel round your neck...bla bla bla

Saddest moments: hmm...can't recall

do you look/feel pregnant: most definitely

Happiest people are: besides me, the father to be, his mother, my mother and our siblings.

Maternity clothes: Mostly mothercare & thyme Maternity


DELIVERY

Next Check up: 24th September

Hong long before baby is due: 11 weeks

Natural? or C-Section?: Natural Birth please with options of pain killers

Scared or Looking forward to delivery? A little of both

Any other Pregnant people around you? Yes....Alai Z who will be due in April, and Izan whose due the same time as me!

To Breast Feed or not to Breast Feed, that is the question

Dear Bloggie,

Been surfing the net for an electrical breastpump. I have decided that I will try and breast feed Baby A for at least the first 6 months of his/her life. I know it's going to be tough especially since I have to go back to work after my maternity leave. My officer was so kind to increase my maternity leave from 2 to 3 months. Basically he said to take all the time I need. Wuhoo! Nevertheless, I will think 3 months maternity leave will be sufficient. I will then have 3 whole months to sort out baby's milk, when to express and how to express. I currently have the Avent manual breast pump, given to me by my SIL but I think a battery operated one would suit me better so I've currently got my eye on this...

Philips Avent ISIS Single electronic breast pump Out and about set

I have no idea where I can buy it just yet but will browse around the usual baby-shops and see if I can find it. Worse comes to worse, I'll ask someone to get it for me when they go abroad. Insyallah, with this I'll be able to breast feed with comfort for the first 6 months.

My Checklist

Furniture for Baby's Nursery

1. Cot / Crib & mattress - Gift from the family
   
2. Cot sheets
3. Pillow & pillow case
   
4. Baby Blanket
   
5. Wardrobe - Got my eye on the white one at growing star B$310
6. Dresser of drawers / Changing Table - The white one at growing star B$245
   
7. Baby Monitor
8. Night Light
9. Hamper for dirty laundry
10. Feeding chair - Two choices from growing star: Red B$ 310, Beige B$ 180
    
11. Side table - Growing Star B$70
    
12. Carpet
13. Moses Basket - Got it
14. Changing Mat - Got it
    

Baby's Daily Essentials

1. Baby clothes
2. Baby Towels
3. Baby Bath tub
4. Baby detergent
5. Diapers

Baby's Toilettries

1. Baby soap/wash
2. Baby shampoo
   
3. Baby lotion
4. ear buds
5. cotton wool
6. minyak telon & balut
7. Diaper cream (Sudocream)
   
8. baby wipes
9. baby powder
10. Gripe water
11. Baby Thermometer
12. Nasal aspirator
13. comb
14. Nail Clippers

Others

1. Stroller
2. Infant carrier
3. High chair
4. Bibs
5. Burb cloth
6. Play pen
   

Week 28

Dear Peanut,

Its a real shame that your Auntie Sue had to return back to Canada with your cousins. You won't be able to meet them in person when you arrive. I'm guessing you'll be able to meet them when you're about 2 years old, insyallah. Anyhoo, Mummy is actually overjoyed with some news that she received. Auntie AZ, daddy & mummy's friend just found out she is pregnant so by April next year, by that time you'll be about 4 months old, you'll have a playmate..yayy!

I was quite upset on Saturday as one of the kittens had its leg crushed by the Gas bottle. Mummy brought it to the vet but when we got there, Ella (the kitten) jumped out of the maids hands and ran off into the jungle. I thought I had lost her. On hearing this, ur daddy gave sedekah and prayed for the best. Incredibly, around 11pm, the vet called mummy telling me he had found Ella. He stitched her up and kept her overnight. Mummy picked her up on Monday and was so glad to see her. I hope you'll be a cat lover too one day, just like mummy & daddy. I'm sure you'll love Ella and little Nicki too.

Anyhoo lil'peanut, Mummy has finally decided where to give birth. As much as mummy wants to give birth in a nice, clean, 5-star private hospital, i.e. JPMC, mummy has decided otherwise and will stick it out at RIPAS hospital and just wish that I'll get a private room. Reason for mummy choosing RIPAS is cause mummy has about 7 friends who have given birth at JPMC and only one went through natural labour. The rest had to have c-sections for various reasons and mummy doesn't want to have a c-section just yet. So its set, its the Government hospital all the way.

Thanks to your Auntie Mimi's advice, mummy's legs aren't as swollen as before. Mummy has gotten into the habit of massaging my feet every afternoon and every night. It must be the heavy load thats straining mummy's feet. No baby, you aren't to blame. I'd would fly to the moon and back for you so mummy's not complaining. Mummy actually dreamt of you last night. You were a very healthy baby (errmm Boy). But thats beside the point. You had soft skin, a stubby nose and chinese looking eyes..hehehe..hmm...I wonder~

Until next week sayang, Mwuah!

P/S: Your Uncle Didih is back from his quarterly visits to Japan. That means we'll get your nursery done earlier than expected coz your Uncle Didih is our very own handyman..hehehe

Things to do this month

Dear Bloggie,

I think I may have about 90 days left before my due date which really is not that far off. I actually feel like the time has just flown by, totally the opposite of what people told me. Anyhoo, I've got three more months to prepare and this month I'm concentrating on fixing up the empty spare room that has now been dubbed the "Baby's Room". Since we still don't know the gender of our little peanut and since we don't really agree to the blue for boy nursery and pink for girl nursery, we are going to keep within the decor of our house, modern contemporary so, baby's room will be painted an earthly BROWN. I've listed down the things that I really need to do this month.

Things to do for Baby's Room

• Paint baby's room
• Buy Chest of Drawers, Wardrobe & Shelving Unit
• Buy Carpet
• Buy Baby's Cot
• Put up pictures in Baby's Room
• Find Brown material for curtains

Things to buy for Baby this month

• WTP Bath set
• WTP Baby Box
• Changing Mat
  

Week 27

Dear Peanut,

How's my munchkin doing today? So far, so good I hope. Mummy had diarrhea again on Monday. I must be eating the wrong things. I have no idea what it was I ate that caused it. I must be careful with what I eat coz the cramps can get very painful. Mummy has been having terrible heartburn which is due to the blocking of mummy's asparagus ...hehehe...its actually Oesophagus but mummy had difficulty saying it while explaining to ur grandma & ur daddy and ended up saying asparagus, which is actually a fruit sayang (or could it be a vegetable?)

On Monday, we had a visit from Santa Clause, the indian version. Your Auntie Imah's driver dropped by with a black bag full of goodies. It took me about an hour to take everything out. Auntie Imah gave us tons of clothes, some baby bedding, toys, shoes and bottles as well as a really cool breast pump. She must of read my mind because it was just the day before that mummy was sorting out your bottom drawer of the things I had already got for you.

Mummy has to start sorting out your room. Maybe i'll be able to paint it this month then i'll need to get a carpet for the room. After all that is done, mummy will start buying the wardrobes and drawers for your clothes. Ohhh you are sooo going to be a spoilt baby coz u'll have all sorts of clothes to wear.

Until next week sayang, mummy & Daddy loves you!

Hospital Bag

I know I'm only 7 months preggers but I'm the type of person who likes to be prepared. I can be a little anal with my To-do-lists, hence the reason why some people say I can sometimes be a "Monica". Anyhoo, slowly slowly I'll need to get things ready for the hospital bag so I won't end up rushing when the time comes.

Essentials

• Robe & Slippers (and Socks too! very important)
• Night shirts or Breastfeeding Nighties (x2)
• Nursing Bra (x2)
• Bra Pads - 1 box
• Sanitary Napkins - 1 box
• undergarments
• Loose clothes (for going home)

• Towels - 2
• Nipple Cream (just in case)

Toiletries

• Toothbrush / Toothpaste
• Deodorant
• Body Lotion
• Shampoo
• Brush
• Scruchies / bandana
• Mouth wash
• Cosmetics

Daddy's Things

• T-shirts
• Underwear
• Towel
• Toothbrush
• Deodorant
• Laptop or I-Pad & charger
• Camera & charger
• Video camera & charger
• mobile chargers

For Baby's Arrival

• Honey
• First set of clothes in a Ziplock Bag
• One Jumpsuit
• Mittens
• Booties
• Hat
• Badung 1 (Muslim Square)
• Badung 2 (Swaddle) 

Baby's Box

• Towel
• change of clothes
• Baby booties
• Baby mittens
• Baby Blanket (Shawl)
• Baby hats
• Diapers
• Baby wipes
• Diaper cream

Baby Toiletries (Optional)

• Baby powder
• Baby lotion
• baby wash
• Baby oil
• cotton wool
• Ear Buds
• Nail Clippers
• Comb

Handling Heartburn

Apparently Heartburn is common in pregnancy but its one of those symptoms that can get very irritating and uncomfortable. Although heartburn cannot be eliminated entirely, there are a few things that can minimize heartburn. Here's the list:

• Avoid food & drinks that can make it worse, i.e. Spicy Food, Citrus Juices, Chocolate.
• Eat small meals frequently
• Eat small mouthfuls and chew food properly
• Do not smoke
• Keep an upright posture, especially after eating
• Eat at least 3 hours before bedtime
• Sleep in a propped up position
• Don't wear tight clothes
• Do not bend over, always bend at knees.
  

Common Symptoms during Pregnancy

Found this list of common symptoms during pregnancy while surfing the internet. Lets see how many of them I have experienced so far.

• Missed Period (Yes - March period missed)
  
• Sore Breasts (Yes - Started to feel sore in the first trimester)
  
• Tiredness (Yes - constantly)
  
• Needing to urinate more (Yes - Started feeling this in my second trimester)
  
• Morning Sickness (NO)
  
• Constipation (NO)
  
• Weight gain (Yes - gained 4 kilos the first month)
  
• Backache (Yes - constantly)
  
• Heartburn (Yes - recently in my 6 month have I only felt this)
  
• Varicose Veins (Yes - Started in my second trimester)
  
• Piles/Haemorroids (NO)
  
• Urinary incontinence (Yes - started in my 6th Month)
  
• Swelling of feet, ankles and hands (Yes - especially after Zee's wedding, feet just exploded)
  
• Carpel tunnel syndrome (NO)
  
• Stretch Marks (Yes- But already had them anyways)
  
• Bleeding Gums (Yes - and sensitive teeth too)
  
• Changes in your hair (Don't Know - I cant really tell)
  
• Changes in your skin (Don't Know - can't really tell)

Not bad, 12/18....heh